Method and apparatus for maximum permissible exposure proximity sensor fault detection

ABSTRACT

Techniques are provided which may be implemented using various methods and/or apparatuses in a mobile device to address maximum permissible exposure (MPE) proximity sensor failure. A mobile device may include a maximum permissible exposure (MPE) sensor control unit to actively monitor signals associated with proper operation of the MPE proximity sensors. Upon detecting an anomaly in any of these signals, such as a value drop below a given threshold, an MPE sensor control Unit will inform an AP (application processor, or other processor or controller) which in turn trigger display of a warning message on the display of the mobile device or the issuance of other warnings such an audible or tactile alert to inform the end user about the maximum permissible exposure (MPE) proximity sensor malfunction and/or notify the end use of a condition resulting in deactivation of the 5G new radio transceiver.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.16/549,162, granted as U.S. Pat. No. 10,897,318, entitled “A Method andApparatus for Maximum Permissible Exposure Proximity Sensor FaultDetection”, filed Aug. 23, 2019, which claims the benefit of U.S.Provisional Application No. 62/834,593, entitled “Maximum PermissibleExposure Detection and Faulty MPE proximity sensor Detection”, filedApr. 16, 2019, both of which are assigned to the assignee hereof andincorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND 1. Field

The subject matter disclosed herein relates to mobile devices, and moreparticularly to methods, messaging and apparatuses for use in or with amobile device to monitor maximum permissible exposure detection and todetect a faulty maximum permissible exposure sensor.

2. Information

Next generation 5G cellular systems utilizes the millimeter wave (mmW)portion of the spectrum to exploit availability of large bandwidth toachieve unprecedented data rates of tens of Gbps/sec. The radiotransmission in mmW spectrum (i.e. 28 GHz) needs to meet stringentexposure requirements for living objects and human tissue. FCC mandatesimplement a maximum permissible exposure (MPE) of 1 mW/cm² at 28 GHz.This exposure limit may be exceeded when the mobile device istransmitting at high Tx power with high beamforming gain. Therefore, itis important to know when living beings, animals and other objects ofconcern are in proximity.

SUMMARY

In an embodiment, the maximum permissible exposure (MPE) sensor controlunit may utilize hardware and/or software to detect a receiver faultinferred from modem processing. In various embodiments, a receiver faultdetection algorithm may monitor the TxPwr at the transmitter output,measure the power level of the mutual coupling signal energy, monitorthe received signal level of H and/or V polarization components, ormonitor a capacitive sensor to control the voltage signals across thecapacitive sensor to ensure that the sensor is operating correctly. Itis understood that these embodiments are not limiting and that otherreceiver fault detection embodiments may be utilized.

In an embodiment, a mobile device may perform a method of detecting afailure in a maximum permissible exposure (MPE) proximity sensor,comprising: measuring an indication of operation of the MPE proximitysensor; determining whether the indication of operation of the MPEproximity sensor is less than a threshold; in response to adetermination that the indication of operation of the MPE proximitysensor is less than the threshold, sending a request for user messagingto an application processor; and issuing an MPE proximity sensor failurealert.

In an embodiment, a mobile device for detecting a failure in a maximumpermissible exposure (MPE) proximity sensor, may comprise: at least onememory; at least one wireless transceiver; the MPE proximity sensor; anda processor, communicatively coupled to the at least one memory, the atleast one wireless transceiver and the MPE proximity sensor, configuredto: measure an indication of operation of the MPE proximity sensor;determine whether the indication of operation of the MPE proximitysensor is less than a threshold; in response to a determination that theindication of operation of the MPE proximity sensor is less than thethreshold, send a request for user messaging to an applicationprocessor; and issue an MPE proximity sensor failure alert.

In an embodiment, a mobile device for detecting a failure in a maximumpermissible exposure (MPE) proximity sensor, may comprise: means formeasuring an indication of operation of the MPE proximity sensor; meansfor determining whether the indication of operation of the MPE proximitysensor is less than a threshold; means for, in response to adetermination that the indication of operation of the MPE proximitysensor is less than the threshold, sending a request for user messagingto an application processor; and means for issuing a MPE proximitysensor failure alert.

An embodiment may comprise a non-transitory computer-readable medium,having stored thereon computer-readable instructions to cause aprocessor on a mobile device to: measure an indication of operation of amaximum permissible exposure (MPE) proximity sensor; determine whetherthe indication of operation of the MPE proximity sensor is less than athreshold; in response to a determination that the indication ofoperation of the MPE proximity sensor is less than the threshold, send arequest for user messaging to an application processor; and issue an MPEproximity sensor failure alert.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

Non-limiting and non-exhaustive aspects are described with reference tothe following figures, wherein like reference numerals refer to likeparts throughout the various figures unless otherwise specified.

FIG. 1 is a device diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of amobile device equipped with a maximum permissible exposure (MPE) sensorsand an MPE control unit. The MPE unit may be implemented in hardware,software or combination thereof.

FIG. 2 is a device diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment for anMPE proximity sensor-enabled device capable of generating a warningmessage or alert upon detecting a failure in status signals.

FIG. 3 is a device diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of amobile device containing a RADAR-based MPE proximity sensor control unitcapable of detecting a failure in the MPE proximity sensor.

FIG. 4 illustrates a process to detect operational faults in a maximumpermissible exposure proximity sensor.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Power limits may be exceeded when the mobile device is transmitting athigh Tx power with high beamforming gain. To prevent humans and otherliving creatures from being exposed to transmissions that exceedregulatory power limits, a mobile device, such as a 5G mobile device,may utilize an MPE proximity sensor to detect nearby living objects,enabling the mobile device to reduce power and/or switch to otherprotocols, such as 4G, when the device detects that a person or otherliving object is nearby. The ability to detect living persons and otherliving objects enhances device safety and regulatory compliance. Inaddition, the ability to detect when living objects are in proximity tothe device enables the device to utilize higher power when not inproximity to living objects. Multiple types of sensors may be utilizedfor body proximity detection; for example, acoustic-based SONAR,Electro-magnetic-based (EM-based) RADAR, Infrared (IR)-based sensors,ultrasonic detectors or other object detection techniques. In someembodiments, a mobile device may also utilize existing millimeter waveradio frequency hardware (mmW RF-HW) to generate a RADAR-based detectionscheme.

In various embodiments, 5G mm Wave (mmW) mobile devices will be equippedwith some form of proximity or body detection sensors (herein referredto as Maximum Permissible Exposure (MPE) sensors) to ensure that thetransmit power and associated power density measured on a human, such asthe mobile device user, will not exceed regulatory limits imposed byvarious regulatory bodies, such as the FCC. Whether using a mmW-based,acoustic based, or capacitive-based sensor, there is the concretepossibility that the MPE proximity sensor may cease to function due tomechanical or electrical failure. Such a failure may be detected so thatthe mobile device does not exceed regulatory limits.

To address MPE proximity sensor failure and keep the mobile devicewithin regulatory limits for exposure, a mobile device may include amaximum permissible exposure (MPE) sensor control unit to activelymonitor the transmitted and received signals associated with the MPEproximity sensors to verify that the MPE proximity sensor is operatingproperly. Upon detecting an anomaly in any of these signals, such as avalue drop below a given threshold or other indication that the MPEproximity sensor is not functioning properly, the MPE proximity sensorcontrol unit 280 will inform the AP (application processor, or otherprocessor or controller) which in would control a display on the deviceto show a warning message on informing the end user about the sensormalfunction, requesting that the device not be used and/or requestingthat the device be repaired. In an embodiment, messages could comprisevisible messages and/or alerts (warning text message, blinking screen,flashing LEDs), for example, on the display, vibration alerts or audiblealerts (beeps, alarms, spoken warnings) or any combination thereof, tonotify the user of an MPE proximity sensor failure condition. In someembodiments, the mobile device may switch to a 4G or WiFi link inresponse to the detected MPE threshold violations. There are severallevels of verification/control at different stages in the transceiverthat can be performed to assess correct functionality of the MPEproximity sensor, as detailed below.

In an embodiment, the MPE proximity sensor control unit may utilizehardware and/or software to detect an MPE proximity sensor transmittercircuitry fault. A fault in the MPE proximity sensor transmitter can bedetected by monitoring the TxPwr at the transmitter power amplifieroutput. If it fails below a certain value or threshold (Tx) then itindicates that there is no or reduced transmitted signal power at thepower amplifier (PA) 225 output and therefore, object detectioncapability has been either reduced or disabled. A measure of Tx_Pwr, asmay be digitally sampled or provided by an analog to digital converteror otherwise measured, may be sent to the MPE proximity sensor controlunit 280 which may trigger an alert to the application processor andhence, to the user.

In an embodiment, the MPE proximity sensor control unit may utilizehardware and/or software to detect an MPE proximity sensor receiverfault, for example, as may be inferred from modem or other processing.In an embodiment, a receiver fault detection algorithm may be augmentedto also measure the power level of the mutual coupling (also known as Txto Rx antenna coupling) signal energy between the transmit antenna 220and the receive antenna 230 of the MPE proximity sensor, to detect ifthe MPE proximity sensor is transmitting properly. Because of transmit(Tx) to receive (Rx) antenna coupling, whenever the Tx antenna 220transmits, the coupling energy should be detectable via the receive (Rx)antenna. In an embodiment, due to close proximity of the antennas, thelevel of energy associated with the mutual coupling is very high. In anembodiment the mutual coupling signal may be expected (e.g., permanentover time; or present whenever a Tx signal is present) due to thephysics of the coupling mechanism. In case a failure was associated withthe receiver circuitry, the energy level of the Tx-Rx coupling signalwould fall below a certain threshold for a long time. This behavior canbe readily detected, and the info passed to the MPE proximity sensorControl Unit which would take the respective actions. Furthermore, in anembodiment, the MPE proximity sensor signal generator may provide anoperations status or a power status, either directly or via a processor,to the MPE proximity sensor control unit so that the MPE proximitysensor control unit can check for a Tx-Rx coupling signal whenever theMPE proximity sensor signal generator is operational and generating asignal.

In an embodiment, the MPE proximity sensor control unit may utilizehardware and/or software for H/V (horizontal/vertical) monitoring to addfurther coverage of the sensor health status. For some MPE proximitysensor embodiments, such as some types of RADAR, both the horizontal andvertical components of the signal should be operational for proper andaccurate object detection to operate. In some embodiments, monitoringthe transmitted/received signal level of H (horizontal) and/or V(vertical) polarization components may also be monitored to determinewhether a failure of the MPE proximity sensor has occurred.

In an embodiment, the MPE proximity sensor control unit may utilizehardware and/or software for capacitive sensor monitoring to monitor theambient current at the detector to check for anomalies in operationalcurrent. In an embodiment, an alternating voltage is applied to thecapacitive sensor causing a corresponding current response at the MPEproximity sensor, which may be monitored to determine if it is withinoperational bounds relative to magnitude and direction of the currentflow. In an embodiment, an MPE proximity sensor diagnostic routine couldalso modify the voltage signals across the capacitive sensors to verifythat a commensurate current response is created and that the capacitiveMPE proximity sensor is operating correctly. For example, a DC bias maybe applied to generate a current response, or the magnitude of thealternating voltage applied to the MPE capacitive sensor may be variedto determine if the MPE capacitive sensor current similarly varies inproportion to the applied voltage.

FIG. 1 illustrates one embodiment of a mobile device equipped with amaximum permissible exposure (MPE) sensor and MPE control unit. The unitmay be implemented in hardware, software or combination thereof. Varioustechnologies may be utilized to implement a proximity or other MPEproximity sensor, such as RADAR, infrared (IR), ultra-sound, SONAR,laser-based, camera-based, and capacitive-based sensor systems.

The methodologies described herein can be implemented by various meansdepending upon the application. For example, these methodologies can beimplemented in hardware, firmware, software, or a combination thereof.For an implementation involving hardware, the processing units can beimplemented within one or more application specific integrated circuits(ASICs), digital signal processors (DSPs), digital signal processingdevices (DSPDs), programmable logic devices (PLDs), field programmablegate arrays (FPGAs), processors, controllers, micro-controllers,microprocessors, electronic devices, other electronic units designed toperform the functions described herein, or a combination thereof.Herein, the term “control logic” encompasses logic implemented bysoftware, hardware, firmware, or a combination. The mobile deviceembodiment may include audio out 115, display 125 and/or vibration unit135 or combination thereof or other output or alert capable mechanismssuch as externally visible LEDs that may be utilized to output warningmessages generated in response to MPE proximity sensor failureconditions or other conditions that may result in a failure of themobile device to meet regulatory maximum permissible exposure (MPE)transmission power limits. MPE proximity sensor control, and MPEproximity sensor failure detection and generation of warning messages orother warning notification may be controlled by General-purposeprocessor 110, which may be an applications processor, a modem processoror other processor on the mobile device. Processing of signals and dataor other processing may also occur in DSP 120. In an embodiment, signalsmay be sent and received via various wireless transceivers (orreceivers) 130 over antenna(s) 132 with signals 134. There may bemultiple wireless transceiver(s) or receivers 130 addressing differentprotocols and uses including wide area network (WAN), wireless localarea network (WLAN), personal area network (PAN), and globalnavigational satellite systems (GNSS). These may include 5G transceiversand signals as well as other wireless technologies such as 4G/LTE, 3G,CDMA, GSM, WCDMA, WiFi, Bluetooth, and GNSS and/or satellite positioningsystems (SPS) such as GPS, Galileo, GLONASS, BeiDou, NAVIC, QZSS andother wireless technologies. Motion and user use of the mobile devicemay be detected via various sensors 140 such as accelerometers, gyros,magnetometers, RADAR, SONAR, capacitive touch, touch sensors, ultrasonicdetectors, infrared (IR) sensors and other body or object detectiontechnologies that may be used to detect nearby living entities. Memory160 may include maximum permissible exposure (MPE) sensor signaldetection and signal post processing software and sensor control unitsoftware and/or various detection algorithms and routines to be used incombination with various detection hardware, such as that describedabove and as illustrated in FIG. 2 and FIG. 3. The mobile device 100 mayalso contain dedicated or shared hardware for maximum PermissibleExposure (MPE) signal detection and signal post-processing hardware andsensor control unit hardware

FIG. 2 illustrates an embodiment of mobile device 100 comprising meansfor an MPE proximity sensor and MPE proximity sensor control system aswell as processing means and alert generation means and output means.The embodiment of FIG. 2 is most applicable to MPE proximity sensorimplementations that rely on transmitted and reflected/received signalsto detect living object (or other object) proximity. Examples of MPEproximity sensor implementations that rely on transmitted andreflected/received signals include RADAR, SONAR, IR, ultra-sound andlight-based systems. Some embodiments described below, such as thoserelying on RF antenna coupling, are specific to RF-based systems whileother embodiments such as those verifying output power, may be appliedto the non-RF technologies as well.

As illustrated in FIG. 2, in an embodiment, a measure of the transmitpower, Tx_Pwr, of the signals transmitted from the Maximum PermissibleExposure (MPE) sensor, are routed to the MPE proximity sensor controlunit 280 that continuously checks the status of such signals to verifythat the MPE proximity sensor is operating appropriately. In anembodiment, the MPE proximity sensor control unit verifies that thetransmit power, Tx_Pwr, of the signals transmitted from the MaximumPermissible Exposure (MPE) sensor, do not fall below a threshold powerlevel. The threshold power level is chosen as to be below normaloperational MPE proximity sensor transmit levels. If/when the transmitpower, Tx_Pwr, of the signals transmitted from the Maximum PermissibleExposure (MPE) sensor fall below a low signal threshold level (TL), asdescribed above, the MPE proximity sensor control unit will send amessage to the application processor (AP) or other processor which inturns displays a warning message on the display or otherwise generates auser alert. The warning message can be in the form of a blinking light,text message, audible alert or any other type of light/sound/vibration.The power output may be measured at the output of a power amplifier orfor SONAR at the speaker or other sound emitting device or, for IR, atthe infrared emitter/LED/lamp or other infrared light emitting device,or for ultra-sound at the ultrasonic emitter or, for light-basedsystems, at the LASER diode or other light emitting device. It isunderstood that output power may refer to signal power, light intensity,sound magnitude and/or other measures of output power. It is furtherunderstood that the receive antenna, in light-based systems, may bereplaced by a camera or light detection assembly and, in sound-basedsystems, may be replaced by a microphone or other sound receptiondevice(s).

In an embodiment, device 200, comprises transceiver 215, MPE proximitysensor control unit 280, MPE signal detection and post-processing unit270, applications processor 290 and display 295. It is understood that,in an embodiment, signal detection and post processing may be performedby dedicated hardware and/or by a combination of processor 110 andmemory 160. It is also understood that received signals may be storedand processed in memory 160 and may be processed by general purposeprocessor 110 and/or DSP 120.

Device 200 may be a mobile device such as a mobile phone, tablet,laptop, portable device, vehicle or other mobile wireless device. Mobiledevice 200 may send signals, using transmit (Tx) antenna 220, andreceive reflected signals from a reflecting object (R) 210 such as ahuman, another living object or a non-living object, using receive (Rx)antenna(s) 230. It is understood that (Rx) antenna(s) 230 may comprisemore than one antenna or may comprise a receiver array. Similarly, (Tx)antenna 220 may comprise one or more transmitters. Transceiver 215comprises various components such as power amplifier (PA) 225, transmitmixer 240, transmit (Tx) antenna 220, receive (Rx) antenna 230, receivemixer 245, and capacitive sensor 260. The MPE proximity sensor may alsocomprise other components such as clock and modulation circuitry and/orIF circuitry (e.g., as the other input into the transmit mixer 240),which are not illustrated but which one skilled in the art would realizemay be included. In an embodiment, the MPE proximity sensor may beimplemented with EM-based RADAR for close proximity detection. In anembodiment, the MPE proximity sensor may also be implemented usingacoustic-based SONAR, also including ultrasonic-based embodiments. It isunderstood that, if a non-EM-based implementation is selected such as anacoustic-based SONAR implementation, the transmit (Tx) antenna 220 andreceive (RX) 230 antenna may be replaced respectively by, for example,one or more speakers and microphones. Similarly, in a light-basedembodiment, the Tx antenna 220 may be replaced by a light emittingelement such as an infrared LED emitter and the RX antenna 230 may bereplaced by a light sensor or camera sensors.

Tx antenna 220 transmits signals boosted by power amplifier (PA) 225,which receives signals from transmit mixer 240. Receive (Rx) antenna 230receives signals from reflector (R) 210, which may be a human, a livingobject or other object. The received signals are amplified using linearamplifier (LNA) 235 and input into receive mixer 245. It is understoodthat, in varying embodiments some of these elements may or may not bepresent or may be configured differently. For example, either of themixers and/or an intermediate frequency (IF) input into the mixer maynot be present.

In an embodiment, mutual coupling between the transmit (Tx) antenna 220and receive (Rx) antenna 230 of the MPE proximity sensor may occur andthe power level associated with the mutual coupling may be measured. Forexample, the output from the receive chain resulting from coupling of anMPE proximity sensor signal transmitted via the transmit chain may bedetected and measured, in an embodiment, in MPE signal detection andpost-processing unit 270. In an embodiment, the transmitted data signalfrom transmit antenna 220 results in mutual coupling signal energy inreceive antenna 230. The mutual coupling signal energy between thetransmit antenna 220 and receive antenna 230 may be monitored to detectfailures associated with the receiver circuitry, based on a drop in thelevel of received coupling signal energy. Also, in an embodiment, themutual coupling signal energy between the transmit antenna 220 andreceive antenna 230 may be monitored to verify that transmit (TX)antenna 220 is also operational. If either the transmit chain or thereceive chain fail, the device may fail to detect proximity to a humanor other living object, and, therefore, detection of a transmit failureor a receive failure would result in notification of the user and/orshutdown of 5G new radio or other communication.

In an embodiment, the measured mutual coupling receive power MC_Rx_Pwrmay be input into the MPE proximity sensor control unit 280, which maydetermine if power levels are within a threshold levels (and hence, theMPE proximity sensor is operational) or if the threshold power levelshave been dropped below and if an alert should be sent out to anapplication processor (AP) 290 or other processing unit denoting an MPEproximity sensor failure. In another embodiment, transmit power, Tx_Pwr,may be measured directly at the output of the PA or other output device;for example using analog to digital or other sampling circuitry, whereina measure of the transmit power, Tx_Pwr may be sent to the MPE proximitysensor control unit 280, to determine if the transmit power is above ahigher threshold power (i.e., operational) or below a lower thresholdpower (i.e., not operational) which may, in an embodiment, mean that theproximity-based MPE proximity sensor is not working. If the Tx_Pwr dropsbelow a lower threshold power, the proximity-based MPE proximity sensorcontrol unit 280 would send an alert should be sent out to anapplication processor (AP) 290 or other processing unit noting that theMPE proximity sensor is not functioning. Note that various processorssuch as modem processors, application processor 110 and/or generalpurpose processors 110 and DSPs 120 may be utilized alone or incombination.

In an embodiment, transmit mixer 240 may be utilized to mix anintermediate frequency (IF) signal with the output from the MPEproximity sensor signal generator 250. The MPE proximity sensor signalgenerator 250 may be utilized to generate signals that are transmittedto detect reflecting objects such as humans and other living objects.Those signals, in an embodiment, may be monitored at the output of thePA 225, or using transmit to receive chain coupling, measured at thereceive (RX) chain, to verify that proximity sensing is active and/orfunctional.

In an embodiment, a capacitive sensor such as capacitive sensor 260 maybe utilized to determine if the mobile device is in contact with a humanbody or other living object. Proper operation of the capacitive sensormay be monitored by applying an alternative current to the capacitivesensor and monitoring the resulting current flow at the capacitivesensor to determine that the capacitive current flow is within expectedlevels. If the capacitive current flow is below a lower threshold(T_(L)), it may signify a failure of the capacitive sensor. If thecapacitive current flow is above a higher threshold (Tx), it may signifythe presence of a human or other living creature.

In an embodiment, other techniques to detect proximity with a human bodysuch as through the use of cameras, motion detectors (such asaccelerometers and/or gyros), and measuring rf field blockage from aknown source may also be usable to detect the presence of a human bodyor of other living objects. When proximity to the human body is detectedby the MPE proximity sensor control unit 280, the MPE proximity sensorcontrol unit 280 will trigger monitoring and/or moderation and/orreduction of 5G NR or other transmit signal power levels to meetgovernment mandated maximum permissible exposure (MPE) levels.Similarly, if failure of the MPE proximity sensor is detected, such asthrough low TX_Pwr power levels and/or low mutual coupling receive power(MC_Rx_Pwr) levels, the MPE proximity sensor control unit may triggercancellation or blockage of 5GNR or other high power signal emissions.

Application processor (AP) 290, or other processor, will, in anembodiment, generate a user notification message if the Tx_Pwr levelsand/or MC_Rx_Pwr levels fall below proximity-based MPE threshold powerlevels. A user warning notification may be displayed on display 295and/or, in various embodiments, notification may include a flashing LED,device vibration, a transmit power back-off and/or device shut down orvarious combinations thereof.

In the case of a malfunction or breakdown of existing MPE proximitysensor devices, the malfunction or breakdown should be detected to averta condition where 5GNR or other communication power levels exceedmaximum permissible emission levels while a human or other living objectis present, likely through communications transmitter shutdown ortransmit power back-off and user notification of the fault condition(s).

In an embodiment, a transmitter circuitry fault may be detected bymonitoring the Tx_Pwr at the transmitter output. If, in an embodiment,the Tx_Pwr falls below a certain lower threshold (T_(L)), it mayindicate that there is no transmitted signal power at the PA output andsimilarly if Tx_Pwr is above a higher threshold (T_(H)) it may signify afailure of the MPE proximity sensor system wherein the sensor systemitself is emitting too much power (such as in a radar system whereemissions of the system are similarly subject to regulatory maximumpower limits). Either or both conditions may, in an embodiment, bedetected based upon the measured Tx_Pwr, triggering the MPE proximitysensor control unit 280 to send an alert to the application processor(AP) 290 regarding an MPE proximity sensor failure and/or, in anembodiment where maximum transmit power (T_(H)) is exceeded, back-off ontransmit power of the sensor or shut down wireless operation, dependingon the severity of the fault and whether it can be adaptively addressed.Various circuitry embodiments may be utilized to measure the transmitpower of the transceiver.

In an embodiment, a receiver fault may be inferred from modemprocessing. The detection algorithm may be augmented to measure thepower level of the mutual coupling between the Tx antenna 220 and the Rxantenna 230. Due to close proximity of the antennas, the level of energyassociated with the mutual coupling between the Tx antenna 220 and theRx antenna 230 is very high and will remain high over time due to thephysics of the coupling mechanism. In an embodiment, if a failure wereassociated with the receiver circuitry, the energy level of this signalwould fall below a certain threshold (Tim) for long period of time(typically for the duration of the failure). The MPE signal detectionand post-processing unit 270 measures the mutual coupling receive powerenergy levels (MC_Rx_Pwr) and sends the measured MC_Rx_Pwr to the MPEproximity sensor control unit. If the MC_Rx_Pwr measured power levelsfalls below a receive threshold (T_(RL)) detected by the MPE proximitysensor control unit 280, the receiver fault condition may cause a MPEproximity sensor fault alert to be generated by the MPE proximity sensorControl Unit 280 which would take the respective actions such as usernotification (via the screen, LEDs blinking, vibration and/or audiblealerts. If the receiver fault were not detected, and if the MPEproximity sensor proximity detection relies on the signal received viathe receive antenna 230, a receiver fault could otherwise result in anundetected proximity condition of a human or other living creature andpotentially result in an exceeding maximum permissible exposure (MPE)not being detected during 5GNR transmissions.

In an embodiment, horizontal and vertical signal components received atreceive (Rx) antenna 230 may be monitored, and the level of the measuredsignal components compared against a threshold level(s). Appropriatehorizontal and vertical signal component levels are useful to accuratelymeasure distance/proximity. Monitoring the horizontal and verticalcomponents of the signal (H/V monitoring) enables verification of properoperation of the MPE-based proximity detection, wherein the receivedsignal level of horizontal and/or vertical polarization components areboth monitored to verify proper operation of the MPE proximitysensor-based proximity detection and notification of the user and/orshutdown of the 5G NR radio.

In an embodiment, the voltage signals across the capacitive sensor(s)260 may be controlled to ensure that the sensor is operating andtherefore properly gating operation of the MPE signal detection andpost-processing unit 270 and/or the MPE proximity sensor control unit280. For example, when an alternating voltage is applied to thecapacitive sensors 260, it creates an alternating electric current basedupon the charge migration across the two plates of the capacitor. Whenan object or person is proximal/near to the capacitive sensor 260 itwill result in an increase in capacitance and an increase in currentflow. The alternating current is detected by capacitive sensor 260.Similarly, if the capacitive sensor 260 is operating properly,increasing or decreasing the magnitude of the alternating voltage willresult in an increase or decrease, respectively, in the amount ofcurrent flow, enabling the proper operation of the capacitive sensor 260to be verified. If the current flow resulting from the ambient operatingvoltage drops below a threshold current level for capacitive currentflow, (T_(CFL)), the MPE signal detection and post processing unit 270will forward MC_TX_PWR measurements to the MPE proximity sensor controlunit 280 which may determine that the capacitive sensor may be disabledand alert an applications processor AP 290 which will cause an alertmessage to be generated on a display, via audio, vibration or otheralert mechanisms and/or shut down 5G NR operation.

FIG. 3 illustrates, in an embodiment, an example implementation of an EMRADAR-based MPE proximity sensor system that may be utilized in mobiledevice 100 to detect proximity of living objects and/or other objects toshut down 5G NR emitted power operation or otherwise back off on 5G NRemitted power. It is understood that post processing may be performed ina DSP 120, a general-purpose processor 110 and memory 160 or in anycombination thereof or various combinations of dedicated or sharedhardware, processor and software. In FIG. 3, mobile device 300 utilizesa EM Radar-based MPE proximity sensor. The EM Radar-based MPE proximitysensor comprises a transceiver 305 which comprises a Tx antenna 320, aPA 325, an Rx antenna 330, a low noise amplifier, LNA 335, a transmitmixer (the upper mixer in the drawing), mixer 340, receive mixer: 345,ramp gen 310, VCO 315, IF Chain 350, LPF (Low pass filter): 360 and 365,down conversion to I and Q, 370 and 375, complex tone generator 380,post processing 390 and pseudo-random frequency offset generation 395.

FIG. 4 shows a flow chart 400 illustrating an example implementation ofa mobile device comprising an MPE proximity sensor which detects MPEproximity sensor faults and issues a failure alert. In variousembodiments, the MPE proximity sensor may use RADAR, SONAR, ultrasonicobject detection, infrared sensors, capacitive sensors, cameras,rangefinders, a light sensor, a camera, a LIDAR receiver, or a motionsensor and other range detection or movement detection devices. In step410, the mobile device measures an indication of operation of a maximumpermissible exposure (MPE) proximity sensor. In various embodiments ofmaximum permissible exposure (MPE) proximity sensors, the indication ofoperation of a maximum permissible exposure (MPE) proximity sensor maybe an indication of transmit and/or output power, transmit and/or outputvoltage, receive and/or input power such as mutual coupling powerbetween transmit and receive chains, or power associated with reflectedtransmitted signal power received at a receive chain, or a measure ofcurrent flow, such as current between the different sides of acapacitive sensor, or a measure of light intensity of reflected light,or of reflected light at a particular frequency or band, or a measure ofreflected sound (magnitude or volume), or the magnitude of reflectedsound at a particular frequency band. Various other indications ofreflected power of a proximity detection signal or other indications ofthe operations of a proximity detection sensor may also be utilized.

In step 420, in an embodiment, it is determined whether the indicationof operation of the MPE proximity sensor is less than a threshold. In anembodiment, the measured indication of operation of the maximumpermissible exposure (MPE) proximity sensor is compared to a thresholdlevel. The threshold level may be determined based on a power belowwhich the maximum permissible exposure (MPE) proximity sensor may not beoperating or is, at least, not operating properly. In some embodimentsthe threshold level may be predetermined. In some embodiments, thethreshold level may be programmed into non-transitory memory on themobile device. In some embodiments, the threshold level may becalibrated based on observed operational levels.

In an embodiment, in FIG. 2, Tx_Pwr above a threshold level is anindication that transmit signals are being emitted by the MPE proximitysensor and a lack of Tx_Pwr or Tx_Pwr below a threshold power levelindicates that the transmit signal of the maximum permissible exposure(MPE) proximity sensor is not being transmitted or is not beingtransmitted at appropriate power levels. In an embodiment, the mutualcoupling receive power, MC_Rx_Pwr, a measure of the power couplingbetween the transmit and receive chains, may also be utilized as ameasure of transmit power and therefore as an indication of operation ofthe MPE proximity sensor. MC_Rx_Pwr below a power threshold may indicatethat the MPE proximity sensor is not in operation and may be analternative or redundant measure of transmit power. In variousembodiments, other indications that are related to operation of the MPEproximity sensor such as output voltage or receive voltage and voltagethresholds may be utilized. In some embodiments, power below a thresholdpower or voltage below a voltage threshold would indicate that the MPEproximity sensor is not operating or not operating properly. Similarly,in some embodiments, a measure of current may be utilized, where currentbelow a threshold or peak current below a threshold indicates that anMPE proximity sensor is not operating properly. For example, in acapacitive MPE proximity sensor, a measure of current flow between theoppositely charged sides of the capacitor, indicates that the capacitiveMPE proximity sensor is operating. If there is no or minimal currentflow between the oppositely charged sides of the capacitor, as analternating voltage is applied to the capacitive MPE proximity sensor,then the capacitive MPE proximity sensor is not operating or notoperating properly. In an infrared MPE proximity sensor, emitted lightmeasured at the emitting infrared diode is a measure of operation of aninfrared MPE proximity sensor. Similarly, in a laser-based range-findingimplementation, emitted light measured at the laser output would be ameasure of operation of a laser-based MPE proximity sensor. In asound-based maximum permissible exposure (MPE) proximity sensor such asan ultrasonic maximum permissible exposure (MPE) proximity sensor or anaudible maximum permissible exposure (MPE) proximity sensor, both soundlevels measured at the speaker or sound levels measured at thereceiver/microphone that is received directly by the microphone or othersonic receiver (versus a reflected signal from a “reflector” such as ahuman or other living object) is an indication that an sonic-basedand/or ultra-sonic-based proximity detector is operating. In anembodiment, multiple maximum permissible exposure (MPE) proximity sensortechnologies may be utilized in the same mobile device. For example, amobile device may have both a capacitive sensor and a ranged maximumpermissible exposure (MPE) proximity sensor such as a RADAR, IR,ultrasound, LIDAR, light or other ranged maximum permissible exposure(MPE) proximity sensor. In an embodiment, if multiple maximumpermissible exposure (MPE) proximity sensors are utilized in a mobiledevice, it may require failure of all or multiple MPE proximity sensors,as indicated by the measured indications of operation, beforecommunications transmissions are terminated or user warning messages areissued by the applications processor 290 or other processor via variousoutput devices.

It is understood that, in an embodiment, the transmit output may bepulsed or otherwise vary in value, and that the receive input values mayvary accordingly. Similarly, a measured current may be induced basedupon an alternating or otherwise varying voltage or other stimulus and,in an embodiment, the indication of operation may be a peak current oran average current or an RMS current or other measure of operation overtime. In an embodiment, the indication of operation of the maximumpermissible exposure (MPE) proximity sensor may be a peak value or, inan embodiment, the indication of operation of the maximum permissibleexposure (MPE) proximity sensor may be an average value or an RMS valueor other indications of power and/or operation over time.

In step 430, in response to the indication of operation of a maximumpermissible exposure (MPE) proximity sensor dropping below thethreshold, the MPE sensor control unit or other sensor monitoring and/orcontrol unit sends a request for user messaging to an applicationprocessor 290 or other processing device. As noted above, if themeasured indication of operation is below or less in value than thethreshold, it indicates that the MPE proximity sensor is not operatingor not operating properly.

In step 440, the application processor 290 or other processor, which hasreceived notification or otherwise determined that the indication ofoperation of the maximum permissible exposure (MPE) proximity sensor isbelow a threshold value, will issue an MPE proximity sensor failurealert, outputting an notification that the MPE proximity sensor is notoperating properly. The alert may be displayed visibly via the display,such as a written message, or the alert may be sent audibly via aspeaker such as a verbal alert or an audible tone or sequence of tones,or sent visibly via a flashing LED or other light, or sent via a tactilenotice such as a vibration, or some combination thereof. In someembodiments, the mobile device may, either in combination withnotification to a user or instead of notification of the user, turn offor disable the 5G new radio transceiver or other wireless communicationstransceiver. In some embodiments, the mobile device may, either incombination with notification to a user or instead of notification ofthe user, reduce transmission power from the 5G new radio transceiver orother wireless transceiver to or below maximum transmission power levelsmandated when operating in the presence of a human being in closeproximity. In some embodiments, when the mobile device disables the 5Gnew radio transceiver or reduces transmission power at the 5G new radiotransceiver, the mobile device may activate or otherwise utilize anon-5G new radio transceiver such as a 4G LTE WAN transceiver or a 3GWAN transceiver or a WiFi transceiver or a Bluetooth transceiver orcombination thereof to maintain communication. In some embodiments thetransfer of a communication session and/or session bandwidth from 5G toa non-5G new radio (NR) transceiver may be implemented as either a hardhandoff or a soft handoff or may be implemented to reduce data transferrate over 5G NR and to coordinate the flow of data across multiplesimultaneous sessions across multiple radio access networks. In anembodiment, a MPE proximity sensor failure and/or a detection of a humanor other living object in proximity to the mobile device may trigger themobile device to reduce data transfer rate over 5G NR and to coordinatethe flow of data across multiple simultaneous sessions across multipleradio access networks.

If the indication of operation of the maximum permissible exposure (MPE)proximity sensor indicates that the MPE proximity sensor is operating instep 420 (e.g., the indication of operation of a maximum permissibleexposure (MPE) proximity sensor is above the threshold and/or above ahigher operations threshold), the MPE proximity sensor is utilized todetect proximity of a human and/or other living object. In response todetection of proximity of a human and/or other living object by the MPEproximity sensor, the mobile device may, in an embodiment, switch to adifferent mode of communications such as from 5G NR to 4G LTE or to WiFior Bluetooth. In an embodiment, the mobile device may, as analternative, turn off transmission capability if all maximum permissibleexposure (MPE) proximity sensors fail.

The methods and/or operations performed in flow chart 400, may beimplemented in hardware, software and various means for and combinationsthereof. It is understood that the device diagrams in FIGS. 1-3 areexample embodiments and are that one skilled in the art may implementthe methods and/or operations performed in flow chart 400 using themeans of FIGS. 1-3 or using other means and/or variants of theillustrated embodiments thereof.

For an implementation involving firmware and/or software, themethodologies can be implemented with modules (e.g., procedures,functions, and so on) that perform the functions described herein. Anymachine readable medium tangibly embodying instructions can be used inimplementing the methodologies described herein. For example, softwarecodes can be stored in a memory and executed by a processing unit.Memory can be implemented within the processing unit or external to theprocessing unit. As used herein the term “memory” refers to any type oflong term, short term, volatile, nonvolatile, or other storage devicesand is not to be limited to any particular type of memory or number ofmemories, or type of media upon which memory is stored.

In an implementation involving firmware and/or software, the functionsmay be stored as one or more instructions or code on a computer-readablemedium. Examples include computer-readable media encoded with a datastructure and computer-readable media encoded with a computer program.Computer-readable media may take the form of an article of manufacturer.Computer-readable media includes physical computer storage media. Astorage medium may be any available medium that can be accessed by acomputer. By way of example, and not limitation, such computer-readablemedia can comprise RAM, ROM, EEPROM, CD-ROM or other optical diskstorage, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or anyother medium that can be used to store desired program code in the formof instructions or data structures and that can be accessed by acomputer; disk and disc, as used herein, includes compact disc (CD),laser disc, optical disc, digital versatile disc (DVD), floppy disk andBlu-ray disc where disks usually reproduce data magnetically, whilediscs reproduce data optically with lasers. Combinations of the aboveshould also be included within the scope of computer-readable media.

In addition to storage on computer readable medium, instructions and/ordata may be provided as signals on transmission media included in acommunication apparatus. For example, a communication apparatus mayinclude a transceiver having signals indicative of instructions anddata. The instructions and data are configured to cause one or moreprocessors to implement the functions outlined in the claims. That is,the communication apparatus includes transmission media with signalsindicative of information to perform disclosed functions. At a firsttime, the transmission media included in the communication apparatus mayinclude a first portion of the information to perform the disclosedfunctions, while at a second time the transmission media included in thecommunication apparatus may include a second portion of the informationto perform the disclosed functions.

Examples of network technologies that may support wireless transceivers130 are Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM), Code DivisionMultiple Access (CDMA), Wideband CDMA (WCDMA), Long Term Evolution LTE),5^(th) Generation Wireless (5G) or New Radio Access Technology (NR),High Rate Packet Data (HRPD). GSM, WCDMA and LTE are technologiesdefined by 3GPP. CDMA and HRPD are technologies defined by the 3^(rd)Generation Partnership Project 2 (3GPP2). WCDMA is also part of theUniversal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS) and may be supportedby an HNB. WAN wireless transceivers may comprise deployments ofequipment providing subscriber access to a wireless telecommunicationnetwork for a service (e.g., under a service contract). Here, a WANwireless transceiver may perform functions of a wide area network (WAN)or cell base station in servicing subscriber devices within a celldetermined based, at least in part, on a range at which the WAN wirelesstransceiver is capable of providing access service. Examples of WAN basestations include GSM™, WCDMA™, LTE™, CDMA™, HRPD™ WiFi™, BT, WiMax™,and/or 5^(th) Generation (5G) base stations. In an embodiment, furtherwireless transceivers 130 may comprise a wireless LAN (WLAN) and/or PANtransceiver. In an embodiment, mobile device 100 may contain multiplewireless transceivers including WAN, WLAN and/or PAN transceivers. In anembodiment, radio technologies that may support wireless communicationlink or links may further comprise Wireless local area network (e.g.,WLAN, e.g., IEEE 802.11), Bluetooth™ (BT) and/or ZigBee™.

A mobile device (e.g., MS or STA or SET) refers to a device such as acellular or other wireless communication device and/or Internet ofThings (IoT) device, personal communication system (PCS) device,personal navigation device (PND), Personal Information Manager (PIM),Personal Digital Assistant (PDA), laptop, tablet, netbook, smartbook,smartphone or other suitable mobile device which is capable of receivingwireless communication and/or navigation signals. The term “mobilestation” is also intended to include devices which communicate with apersonal navigation device (PND), such as by short-range wireless,infrared, wireline connection, or other connection—regardless of whethersatellite signal reception, assistance data reception, and/orposition-related processing occurs at the device or at the PND. Also,“mobile station” is intended to include all devices, including wirelesscommunication devices, computers, laptops, etc. which are capable ofcommunication with a server, such as via the Internet, WiFi, or othernetwork, and regardless of whether satellite signal reception,assistance data reception, and/or position-related processing occurs atthe device, at a server, or at another device associated with thenetwork. Any operable combination of the above are also considered a“mobile station.” The terms “mobile station” and “mobile device” areoften used interchangeably.

This disclosure includes example embodiments; however, otherimplementations can be used. Designation that something is “optimized,”“required” or other designation does not indicate that the currentdisclosure applies only to systems that are optimized, or systems inwhich the “required” elements are present (or other limitation due toother designations). These designations refer only to the particulardescribed implementation. Of course, many implementations are possible.The techniques can be used with protocols other than those discussedherein, including protocols that are in development or to be developed.

In the preceding detailed description, numerous specific details havebeen set forth to provide a thorough understanding of claimed subjectmatter. However, it will be understood by those skilled in the art thatclaimed subject matter may be practiced without these specific details.In other instances, methods and apparatuses that would be known by oneof ordinary skill have not been described in detail so as not to obscureclaimed subject matter.

The terms, “and”, “or”, and “and/or” as used herein may include avariety of meanings that also are expected to depend at least in partupon the context in which such terms are used. Typically, “or” if usedto associate a list, such as A, B or C, is intended to mean A, B, and C,here used in the inclusive sense, as well as A, B or C, here used in theexclusive sense. In addition, the term “one or more” as used herein maybe used to describe any feature, structure, or characteristic in thesingular or may be used to describe a plurality or some othercombination of features, structures or characteristics. Though, itshould be noted that this is merely an illustrative example and claimedsubject matter is not limited to this example.

While there has been illustrated and described what are presentlyconsidered to be example features, it will be understood by thoseskilled in the art that various other modifications may be made, andequivalents may be substituted, without departing from claimed subjectmatter. Additionally, many modifications may be made to adapt aparticular situation to the teachings of claimed subject matter withoutdeparting from the central concept described herein.

Therefore, it is intended that claimed subject matter not be limited tothe particular examples disclosed, but that such claimed subject mattermay also include all aspects falling within the scope of appendedclaims, and equivalents thereof.

For an implementation involving firmware and/or software, themethodologies may be implemented with modules (e.g., procedures,functions, and so on) that perform the functions described herein. Anymachine-readable medium tangibly embodying instructions may be used inimplementing the methodologies described herein. For example, softwarecodes may be stored in a memory and executed by a processor unit. Memorymay be implemented within the processor unit or external to theprocessor unit. As used herein the term “memory” refers to any type oflong term, short term, volatile, nonvolatile, or other memory and is notto be limited to any particular type of memory or number of memories, ortype of media upon which memory is stored.

If implemented in firmware and/or software, the functions may be storedas one or more instructions or code on a computer-readable storagemedium. Examples include computer-readable media encoded with a datastructure and computer-readable media encoded with a computer program.Computer-readable media includes physical computer storage media. Astorage medium may be any available medium that can be accessed by acomputer. By way of example, and not limitation, such computer-readablemedia can comprise RAM, ROM, FLASH, EEPROM, CD-ROM or other optical diskstorage, magnetic disk storage, semiconductor storage, or other storagedevices, or any other medium that can be used to store desired programcode in the form of instructions or data structures and that can beaccessed by a computer; disk and disc, as used herein, includes compactdisc (CD), laser disc, optical disc, digital versatile disc (DVD),floppy disk and Blu-ray disc where disks usually reproduce datamagnetically, while discs reproduce data optically with lasers.Combinations of the above should also be included within the scope ofcomputer-readable media.

In addition to storage on computer-readable storage medium, instructionsand/or data may be provided as signals on transmission media included ina communication apparatus. For example, a communication apparatus mayinclude a transceiver having signals indicative of instructions anddata. The instructions and data are configured to cause one or moreprocessors to implement the functions outlined in the claims. That is,the communication apparatus includes transmission media with signalsindicative of information to perform disclosed functions. At a firsttime, the transmission media included in the communication apparatus mayinclude a first portion of the information to perform the disclosedfunctions, while at a second time the transmission media included in thecommunication apparatus may include a second portion of the informationto perform the disclosed functions.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method of detecting a failure in a maximumpermissible exposure (MPE) proximity sensor, comprising: mixing anintermediate frequency (IF) signal with an output from the MPE proximitysensor; generating signals that are transmitted to detect reflectingobjects; monitoring the generated signals; determining, based upon themonitored generated signals, that the MPE proximity sensor is notfunctioning; and issuing an MPE proximity sensor failure alert.
 2. Themethod of claim 1, wherein the monitored generated signals are measuredat an output of a power amplifier (PA).
 3. The method of claim 1,wherein the monitored generated signals are measured at a receive chain.4. The method of claim 3, wherein the monitored generated signalsmeasured at the receive chain are the generated signals coupled from thetransmit chain to the receive chain.
 5. The method of claim 1, whereinthe determining, based upon the monitored generated signals, that theMPE proximity sensor is not functioning is based upon a change in signalparameters.
 6. The method of claim 5, wherein the change in signalparameters is detected based upon a predetermined threshold.
 7. Themethod of claim 1, wherein the MPE proximity sensor utilizes radiodetection and ranging (RADAR).
 8. A mobile device for detecting afailure in a maximum permissible exposure (MPE) proximity sensor,comprising: at least one memory; at least one wireless transceiver; theMPE proximity sensor; and a processor, communicatively coupled to the atleast one memory, the at least one wireless transceiver and the MPEproximity sensor, configured to: mix an intermediate frequency (IF)signal with an output from the MPE proximity sensor; generate signalsthat are transmitted to detect reflecting objects; monitor the generatedsignals; determine, based upon the monitored generated signals, that theMPE proximity sensor is not functioning; and issue an MPE proximitysensor failure alert.
 9. The mobile device of claim 8, wherein themonitored generated signals are measured at an output of a poweramplifier (PA).
 10. The mobile device of claim 8, wherein the monitoredgenerated signals are measured at a receive chain.
 11. The mobile deviceof claim 10, wherein the monitored generated signals measured at thereceive chain are the generated signals coupled from the transmit chainto the receive chain.
 12. The mobile device of claim 8, wherein thedetermination, based upon the monitored generated signals, that the MPEproximity sensor is not functional, is based upon a change in signalparameters.
 13. The mobile device of claim 12, wherein the change insignal parameters is detected based upon a predetermined threshold. 14.The mobile device of claim 8, wherein the MPE proximity sensor utilizesradio detection and ranging (RADAR).
 15. A mobile device for detecting afailure in a maximum permissible exposure (MPE) proximity sensor,comprising: means for mixing an intermediate frequency (IF) signal withan output from the MPE proximity sensor; means for generating signalsthat are transmitted to detect reflecting objects; means for monitoringthe generated signals; means for determining, based upon the monitoredgenerated signals, that the MPE proximity sensor is not functioning; andmeans for issuing an MPE proximity sensor failure alert.
 16. The mobiledevice of claim 15, wherein the monitored generated signals are measuredat an output of a power amplifier (PA).
 17. The mobile device of claim15, wherein the monitored generated signals are measured at a receivechain.
 18. The mobile device of claim 17, wherein the monitoredgenerated signals measured at the receive chain are the generatedsignals coupled from the transmit chain to the receive chain.
 19. Anon-transitory computer-readable medium, having stored thereoncomputer-readable instructions to cause a processor on a mobile deviceto: mix an intermediate frequency (IF) signal with an output from theMPE proximity sensor; generate signals that are transmitted to detectreflecting objects; monitor the generated signals; determine, based uponthe monitored generated signals, that the MPE proximity sensor is notfunctioning; and issue an MPE proximity sensor failure alert.